COUNCILLORS have given the go-ahead to a controversial scheme which will see car parks in the district become free for up to two hours.

The new Conservative administration on Vale of White Horse District Council approved the plans at a cabinet meeting on Friday, despite council officers warning it will cost £250,000 a year.

The scheme, aimed at helping town centre traders in Abingdon and Wantage, also drew criticism from Lib Dem opposition councillors, but was praised by chamber of commerce leaders.